Intro
" This Is Christmas" is the tenth studio album and very first vacation album by American vocalist Luther Vandross. Released on October 18, 1995, under the record label Epic, the 10-track album ended up being a precious holiday classic, showcasing Vandross's signature soulful sound and amazing singing variety while commemorating the joyful season through a mix of traditional Christmas carols and initial structures.
Background and Production
Seeing the success of other artists launching vacation albums, consisting of Nat King Cole, Mariah Carey, and Boyz II Men, Vandross decided it was time for him to produce a Christmas album of his own. Working together with long-time producer Marcus Miller, Vandross put together a team of artists and co-writers that consisted of newcomers and previous collaborators like Tawatha Agee, Reed Vertelney, and Fonzi Thornton.
The album was taped in multiple studios, including A&M Studios in Hollywood, Westlake Audio in Los Angeles, and Clinton Recording Studios in New York City. Vandross aimed to develop a holiday album that would stand the test of time and become a timeless in its own right, appealing to listeners of any ages.
Track Listing and Musical Style
" This Is Christmas" features a mix of classics and original tracks, showcasing Vandross's unique design and remarkable singing abilities. The album's track listing is as follows:
1. "With a Christmas Heart"
2. "This Is Christmas"
3. "The Mistletoe Jam (Everybody Kiss Somebody)".
4. "Every Year, Every Christmas".
5. "My Favorite Things".
6. "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas".
7. "I Listen to the Bells" (Featuring Darlene Love).
8. "Please Come Home for Christmas".
9. "A Kiss for Christmas".
10. "O' Come All Ye Faithful".
The album integrates traditional Christmas carols like "My Favorite Things", "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas", and "O' Come All Ye Faithful" with initial structures unique to Vandross's design. These originals include the album's title track "This Is Christmas", a smooth R&B ballad, and the up-tempo, danceable "The Mistletoe Jam (Everybody Kiss Somebody)".
Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, "This Is Christmas" got blended evaluations from music critics, with some praising Vandross's singing efficiency and others slamming the album's lack of cohesiveness. In spite of these combined reviews, the album became a business success, peaking at number 28 on the Billboard 200 chart and making gold accreditation in the United States for selling over 500,000 copies.
In the years because its release, "This Is Christmas" has actually ended up being a staple in vacation music collections and is played frequently on radio stations and streaming platforms throughout the festive season. The album's initial tunes, like "Every Year, Every Christmas" and "This Is Christmas", have actually ended up being holiday favorites, standing alongside classic classics.
Conclusion
" This Is Christmas" by Luther Vandross is a vacation album that integrates the singer's soulful noise with joyful cheer. Despite preliminary mixed reviews, the album has become a preferred among fans and a vacation classic, leaving an enduring impact on the seasonal music landscape. With an ideal blend of initial tunes and traditional carols, "This Is Christmas" permits listeners to experience the heat and delight of the holiday season through the effective and emotive voice of among the most gifted singers of his time, Luther Vandross.
Artist: Luther Vandross
Luther Vandross - his biography, memorable quotes, and the enduring magic of his smooth, soulful voice.
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